Aspire to inspire.

The holiday season has arrived and with it an annual self-reflection has begun.

For many, 2012 will be measured by a bottom line that dictates whether we've invested our time wisely. Wall Street, for all its vices and virtues, is a place where self-worth is often measured by net worth. Win, lose, or draw, we know where we stand; make money and it was time well spent; lose money and it was a lesson learned.

This column isn't about the next five percent, secular headwinds, or geopolitical interpretation. We've spent countless hours writing about that and we will continue to do so as we edge ahead. No, this missive is about a different kind of profitability, one that isn't measured by the size of a house or the speed of a car.

It's about the important stuff; giving back and staying true to the person you are; as my grandfather Ruby used to say, "All you have is your name and your word."

Inspiration, move me brightly…

Throughout the era of conspicuous consumption and immediate gratification, giving back took a back seat to getting ahead. Since the Age of Austerity arrived like a clap of thunder, many continue to struggle as we adapt to the new economic reality and the attendant social mood. There's no denying times are tough and things are changing. We can point fingers and wallow in the "why" or we can try to be part of the solution to leave the world a better for our children.

My grandfather Ruby told me that what goes around comes around, that time is the most precious commodity, and to always think positive. Psychic income may not pay immediate or tangible dividends but it enriches our soul in a way that can't be measured by a bottom line. It doesn't have to be money; it could be volunteering our time or a random act of kindness.

I would also like to personally thank the RP Foundation Board of Directors, the Minyanville staff, our professors and contributors, our partners and affiliates, Yahoo Finance (NASDAQ:YHOO) (stay tuned for a slew of media segments), and our friends at The New York Stock Exchange for the privilege and honor of "ringing in" Festivus with some swagger!

As a picture is worth 1,000 words, here are a few to chew through. Thanks for your continued support!

Todd Harrison is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Minyanville. Prior to his current role, Mr. Harrison was President and head trader at a $400 million dollar New York-based hedge fund. Todd welcomes your comments and/or feedback at todd@minyanville.com.

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